Shoreland Alterations: Vegetation

Advantages of PreservationCulbert Lake Tetonka 6-2-10 010

Advantages of preserving natural vegetation include:

  • Maintaining habitat for fish and wildlife
  • Preserving the aesthetic value of the shoreline
  • Protecting water quality
  • Reducing erosion and runoff
  • Providing privacy

Before Altering Vegetation

Before you alter (plant, remove, and/or replace) vegetation within shoreland areas, please contact the Le Sueur County Environmental Services at 507-357-8538.  

MN State Statute 6120.3300 Zoning Provisions, Subp. 4 and Le Sueur County Ordinance Section 13, Subdivision 5, Part B, state the removal or alteration of vegetation is subject to the following standards:

  • Intensive vegetation clearing is not allowed within the shore and bluff impact zones.
  • In bluff and shore impact zones and on steep slopes, limited clearing of trees and shrubs and cutting and trimming of trees is allowed to provide a view to the water from the principal dwelling site and to accommodate the placement of stairways. paths, landings, and water orientated structures.

If your vegetation alteration needs approval from the Environmental Services Department, please complete the Land Alteration Plan located below.    

Land Alteration Plan-Shoreland

Additional Resources